Inter president Massimo Moratti continues takeover negotiations

Inter president Massimo Moratti says he is acting in the best interests of the club as he continues negotiations over a €300m sale of the Nerazzuri.

It is understood that Moratti will sell a 70% majority stake in the club to the wealthy Indonesian businessman Erick Thohir, although he is expected to stay on and play a executive role at the club following the deal.

Former owner Ernesto Pellegrini pleaded with his successor earlier this week not to sell the club to “a stranger” and to avoid losing tradition and keep Inter under Italian ownership.

However, his words appear to have fallen on deaf ears as Moratti explained that his decision will benefit the club and its supporters in the long-term.

“I am acting in the interest of fans. Inter can then be managed in a new, modern way. This is not about the club’s survival, but a matter of innovation,” Moratti said to La Gazzetta dello Sport as reported by Goal.com.

“Inter have to make create a greater brand image across the world if it is to have a future that is as strong as its past. Nostalgia is behind us, and I am looking to the future.”

“For years Italian football won in Europe, but never paid attention beyond home turf in terms of finances, so we lost,” the 68-year-old added.

“People mention debts, but the real issue is revenue. These are necessary resources and I am worried for the future of this club. An Asian club is fundamental to bring in new markets.”

Inter suffered huge disappointment last season as they finished ninth in Serie A, and have failed to re-establish themselves since winning the treble under Jose Mourinho back in 2010.

Former Napoli boss Walter Mazzarri was installed as Andrea Stramaccioni’s replacement this summer, and there is much optimism surrounding his ability to help the club become competitive again.

A takeover would signify a new start for the club, as they would be able to not only press ahead with plans for a new stadium, but significant funds would be made available to strengthen the squad.